POSTED August 9, 2022
International Youth Day: how children are changing our world for the better
As the world marks International Youth Day Aug 12, find out how Children Believe is helping kids create lasting change
By Danielle Daley, digital community coordinator, Canada
Did you know half of the people on Earth are 30 or younger, and that number is expected to grow by seven percent by the end of 2023? That’s why International Youth Day is such an appropriate time to share the message that all generations need to make change together to create a better world for everyone.
At Children Believe, one of our main strategies for making lasting change in communities where we work is to partner with children for change. We help young people in our six countries of operation be active, engaged citizens.
We support clubs and youth groups that provide a safe space for children to learn their rights, discuss issues and develop leadership skills as well as partner with parents, teachers and community members, so children’s voices can be heard. Below are just a few stories of young people making a difference…
- In India, a leader named Chandarasekar made it possible for his peers to realize their rights, stopping three child marriages as well as helping two girls pursue higher education. (And, that’s just the beginning of his story.)
- In Nicaragua, we support youth, like fashion entrepreneur Hector, in building a successful future through skills-building and leadership training. We’re providing young people with the tools to overcome financial hardship, work in their communities and live out their dreams.
- In Paraguay, young people were involved in creating 20 commitments to protect the rights of children and youth in their country. It’s part of a national plan to make lasting change.
And, this week we’ll be highlighting a new project to connect youth in our communities with their global peers.
Join us in continuing to work with our younger generation to create brighter futures. Learn more about how you can make a difference through sponsorship.
ABOUT CHILDREN BELIEVE:
Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.
About ChildFund Alliance:
A member of ChildFund Alliance, Children Believe is part of a global network of child-focused development organizations working to create opportunities for children and youth, their families and communities. ChildFund helps nearly 23-million children and their families in 70 countries overcome poverty and underlying conditions that prevent children from achieving their full potential. We work to end violence against children; provide expertise in emergencies and disasters to ease the harmful impact on children and their communities; and engage children and youth to create lasting change and elevate their voices in decisions that affect their lives.